Burla (Sambalpur): Following incessant rainfall in the upper catchment areas, authorities of the Hirakud Dam have announced the season’s first floodwater will be released on July 9, 2026.

According to the Additional Chief Engineer of the Hirakud Dam Circle, water will be discharged from the Hirakud reservoir into the Mahanadi river at around 11:00 AM on the scheduled day. A flood alert has been issued in view of the release.

Officials further stated district administrations, police, municipal authorities, and other concerned departments have been directed to take all necessary precautionary measures.

Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that the downstream riverbed is cleared of people and activities to prevent any loss of life or property.